Speeches

The process of moving closer to the European Union is one which will inevitably bring stability and prosperity to Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is why progress on the EU path remains the stated goal of Bosnian leaders from all ethnic communities.

These days are special for Bosnia and Herzegovina, as it will celebrate 25 years since its admission as a full-fledged member state to the United Nations, along with Croatia and Slovenia, on 22 May 1992.

These are difficult times for the EU and for Bosnia and Herzegovina. The challenges we face are fundamental, and there is a growing awareness that they necessitate a determined and strategic reengagement.

During and especially after the war ended nearly 21 years ago, tens of thousands of men and women from other countries have come to this country to work with and for its people. And some of those men and women have given their lives for the sake of peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

When I addressed the Council six months ago we were on the eve of the 20th Anniversary of the Dayton Peace Agreement. This was an opportunity to mark how far Bosnia and Herzegovina has come, but also to recognize that there is much more work needed to ensure lasting stability and a better future for the people of this beautiful country.